Systolic murmur

Systolic Murmur

A systolic murmur is a type of heart murmur that occurs during the systolic phase of the cardiac cycle. It is characterized by an abnormal sound heard when listening to the heart with a stethoscope, typically described as a whooshing or swishing noise.

Causes

Systolic murmurs can be caused by a variety of conditions, including congenital heart disease, valvular heart disease, and cardiomyopathy. They can also be a normal finding in certain individuals, particularly in children and young adults.

Congenital Heart Disease

Congenital heart disease is a common cause of systolic murmurs. Conditions such as ventricular septal defect, atrial septal defect, and patent ductus arteriosus can all result in a systolic murmur.

Valvular Heart Disease

Valvular heart disease, including conditions such as aortic stenosis, mitral regurgitation, and tricuspid regurgitation, can also cause a systolic murmur.

Cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathy, a disease of the heart muscle, can result in a systolic murmur due to the abnormal function of the heart.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a systolic murmur involves a thorough medical history and physical examination, including listening to the heart with a stethoscope. Further diagnostic tests may include an echocardiogram, electrocardiogram, and cardiac catheterization.

Treatment

Treatment of a systolic murmur depends on the underlying cause. This may involve medication, lifestyle changes, or in some cases, surgery.

See Also

• Diastolic murmur
• Heart murmur
• Cardiac cycle